For the most part, I've grown tired of zombie movies. While favorites such as 28 Days Later along with the initial seasons of The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, this category seems largely exhausted nowadays. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been sitting on my to-watch queue for some time. However, the platform's new Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert my expectations turning out remarkably enjoyable.
Excellent Pacing and Character Growth
One of the film's strongest assets is its excellent rhythm. It kicks off using a memorable opening sequence where a calm family gathering is violently interrupted by a vehicle plows into the guest area. Out of the van, an extremely undead-looking individual emerges proceeding attacking the attendees. This dramatic moment is immediately succeeded by a look back, giving viewers to observe the family before the tragedy occurred.
In contrast to many zombie films, The Elixir truly gives the audience sufficient opportunity to become acquainted with its main personalities before the chaos ensues. There's Nes, a wife and mother whose former close friend, Karina, has become married to her dad—a clearly uncomfortable situation. This has understandably caused a rift between Nes and Karina. We also see Nes' brother, Bang, who is good-natured but a bit inept socially, and who loves gaming with his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, seems to have lately been unfaithful to her. This household patriarch is Nes' father, the owner of a well-known herbal remedy company named Wani Waras, and he appears focused on only two aspects: his work and his wife to Nes' former best friend. Needless to say, this gathering is extremely strained.
Invested in the Drama
I became so invested in the household's issues and their personal conflicts that I nearly forgot I was watching a horror film—which might seem like a drawback, but in the end worked well. The Elixir dedicates a considerable amount of the film depicting viewers the identity of every relative represents, plus the ways they add to the overall dysfunction. This focus on clashing personalities allowed the audience to relate to the personalities sufficiently to be concerned for their outcome—a rare accomplishment for this style that often presents individuals just to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as two-dimensional, expendable casualties for a horde of zombies to consume, so it's a genuine shock when things eventually deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening scenes from the gathering and the multiple household exchanges actually evoke the film Parasite, a tale which disguises itself like a Korean drama with slightly dark comedy before making an abrupt shift into shocking territory. These introductory moments don't focus too heavily on comedy as Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless gives sufficient time to settle into the setting before everything gets upended.
Unique Infection Source
This movie additionally presents a fairly intriguing explanation regarding the origin of the contagious transformation. Rather than an accidental lab leak or some sort of bioweapon, the cause for this infectious condition stems from a recent sample from Wani Waras herbal remedies created by her dad. While we do learn something regarding its origins, it would have been better if the film had spent a little more focus explaining how Wani Waras went from a trusted supplier of holistic medicine to producing a deadly elixir which seems to contain an extremely infectious virus. Regardless of the lack of background, the effect this condition produces on people is utterly disgusting, and I love it. The Elixir's zombies are quick, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This represents a bold choice, but it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and CGI are also very convincing, and are almost certain to provoke one's trypophobia.
Resourceful Characters
More impressive compared to the disgusting scenes are the characters themselves. Of course, there are some instances of questionable decision-making (like any typical undead film), but generally, Nes and her family are resourceful and quick-thinking. They also don't hesitate to strike a zombie in the head, stab it using a farm tool, or hit it on the skull with the nearest blunt instrument is available rather than standing still like prey caught in lights while danger approaches.
Realistic Familial Strike
The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus of familial discord once individuals begin transforming into zombies, which was a pleasantly realistic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly forgive you for all your mistakes!" trope frequently used in end-of-world films. Obviously, Nes cares for her relatives and cares about her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she remains clinging to resentment regarding his infidelity in their relationship. When the family becomes split up, they agree via telephone to meet up at a nearby spot. But when Bang admits he doesn't know the way to the location, Nes unleashes an immense amount of frustration on her brother which has obviously been building over time. Nes isn't perfect, and her family—with all their imperfections—feel authentic and understandable because the film avoids attempting to promote the idea that nearly dying immediately resolves familial strife. This makes those instances when these characters express appreciation toward one another feel far more genuine.
Predictable Ending
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the conclusion must be said to be somewhat formulaic. The Elixir isn't really presenting any deep insight regarding relatives or society, either. Instead, it's mostly delivering scares. But they're effective scares, and since the film allows every personality enough room to grow and avoids penalizing them for their imperfections, the outcome proves an engaging and entertaining
